Last Update: 6/9/2025
Written by Greg Long
Got an SUV? Then you can go RVing.
No need to buy a big truck just to go camping. We picked 9 of our favorite lightweight travel trailers — each under 5,000 lbs GVWR.
What stood out? Great layouts, extremely useful features, and easy towing that won’t push your SUV past its limit.
We’ll break down what each camper offers, what they cost, and share towing tips, so you can feel confident choosing a lightweight RV that fits your SUV — without second-guessing it later.
What is GVWR?
Note from the Bish-Blog Guy: GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating—the max safe weight of the trailer when it’s fully loaded. It’s the number that matters most when figuring out if your SUV can tow a camper safely.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Why Buy a Lightweight Camper?
Not everyone wants (or needs) a massive 35-foot rolling condo.
Lightweight campers — especially those under 5,000 lbs — offer a simpler, more flexible way to travel. They’re easier to tow, easier to store, and easier to afford.
And if you’ve already got an SUV or midsize truck, you might be surprised by what you can safely pull.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just dipping your toes into RVing, a lightweight trailer keeps things fun without needing a monster truck and a second paycheck.
What are the Pros and Cons of Lightweight Campers
Explained by Greg — The Bish-Blog Guy
TRANSCRIPT for SUV Towable Camper Pros and Cons
“Okay—SUV towable campers. Let’s talk pros and cons.
Pro #1: You’ve already got a tow vehicle. If you own an SUV or a decent truck, you don’t have to sell a kidney to buy a diesel. You’re set.
Pro #2: Small campers = more freedom. A lot of national and state parks have size limits. Too big? You can’t camp there. But with a compact camper, you get way more options.
Pro #3: Towing is just easier. Backing up, braking, even pulling into a gas station—it’s all a lot less stressful with a lighter trailer.
Time for the cons…
Con #1: Small campers are…well…small. Less room for sleeping. Got a big family? Might need a pop-up tent.
Con #2: Storage’s tight. You’re gonna have to play Tetris with your gear to make everything fit.
Con #3: Showers. Yes, you probably have one—but some are wet baths. That means your sink, toilet, and shower all share the same space. Like… literally.
Bottom line? SUV campers are about freedom. Less bulk, more flexibility—and if you choose the right one, a whole lotta fun packed into under 5,000 pounds.”
Why Are SUV Towable Campers Under 5,000 lbs Becoming More Popular?
RV sales overall are trending down—travel trailer sales have dropped by nearly 5.5% nationwide in the past 12 months. But not all travel trailer types are seeing declines in sales.
Single axle campers—many of which fall under 5,000 lbs and are SUV-towable—have actually seen a slight increase, growing by 0.45% year over year.
In a declining market, that small growth matters. It shows that more buyers are choosing lightweight RVs that are:
- Easier to tow with a vehicle they already own
- Simpler to park and store
- More affordable to buy and operate
While bigger travel trailers still have their place, small, towable campers are proving to be the go-to choice for anyone who wants a simpler setup and access to campgrounds and roads big rigs can’t reach.
Got questions about towing, features, or what to expect from a small camper?
Scroll to the bottom—we’ve put together a quick FAQ to help you figure out what extras you may want to consider and what to look for when considering a smaller camper.
What Are the Best Small Campers Under 5,000 lbs in 2025?
These 9 campers aren’t one-size-fits-all, but they stood out to our team at Bish’s after walking through hundreds of floorplans this year:
- Grand Design Transcend One 151BH
- Jayco Jay Flight SLX 160LK
- Jay Feather Micro 173MRB
- Keystone Hideout 178RB
- Forest River Wildwood FSX 179DBKX
- Forest River R-Pod 194
- Coachmen Apex 15R
- Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK
- Wayfinder Go Lite Cloudbreaker
Some impressed us with genius use of space, others with build quality, versatility, or just doing the basics better than most.
Let’s break them down one by one…
Grand Design Transcend One 151BH
Grand Design Transcend One 151BH
Length: 19′ 8″
Weight (GVWR): 4,420 lbs
Sleeps: 5
Approximate National Price Range: $17,500 – $23,500
What Makes the Grand Design Transcend One 151BH Stand Out?
- Compact and Lightweight: At under 20 feet and a GVWR of 4,420 lbs, it’s easily towable by many midsize SUVs and small trucks.
- Family-Friendly Layout: Features a front queen bed, two 28″ x 67″ bunk beds, and a jackknife sofa, accommodating up to five sleepers.
- Efficient Use of Space: Despite its size, it offers a full kitchen with a 2-burner cooktop, microwave, and 3.3 cu ft 12V refrigerator.
- Durable Construction: Built with Grand Design’s quality standards, including a fully enclosed underbelly and aluminum entry steps.
- Convenient Amenities: Includes a 10′ power awning, exterior LP quick connect, and pass-through storage for added convenience.
Heads Up: The compact size means limited interior space, which might feel tight for longer trips or larger families. The bunk beds are shorter than standard, so taller individuals may find them less comfortable.
Inside the Transcend One 151BH
Towing Tips:
With a GVWR of 4,420 lbs and a dry weight of 3,550 lbs, the 151BH is suitable for many midsize SUVs and light-duty trucks.
Ensure your vehicle’s towing capacity exceeds the trailer’s GVWR and consider using a weight distribution hitch for improved stability.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Grand Design Transcend One 151BH:
Josh liked how the 151BH packs a lot of camper into a small footprint. It’s kind of like one of those pop-up storage cubes—compact when you need it to be, but surprisingly useful once you open it up.
Great for first-timers, small families, or anyone who wants to keep things light, simple, and still have a place for the kids (or the dog, or your fishing gear).
Think the Transcend One 151BH might work for you? Take a closer look.
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 160LK
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 160LK
Length: 21′ 5″
Weight (GVWR): 4,700 lbs
Sleeps: 4
Approximate National Price Range: $18,000 – $28,000
What Makes the Jay Flight SLX 160LK Stand Out?
- 8-foot wide body gives it a more open, residential feel
- Rear kitchen with impressive counter and cabinet space
- Sofa layout adds comfort and makes the space feel less cramped
- True 60″ x 80″ queen bed—not a corner or short RV version
- Backed by Jayco’s 2+3 year warranty, one of the best in its class
Heads Up: The rear bath is roomy for a camper this size, but the east-west bed layout means one person has to climb over the other. Also, a few windows don’t open, so cross-breeze airflow is limited.
Inside the Jay Flight SLX 160LK
Towing Tips:
With a GVWR of 4,700 lbs, this is towable by many midsize SUVs and small trucks rated around 5,500 lbs or more.
A brake controller and weight distribution hitch are recommended for stability and safety.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 160LK:
Josh went in expecting a repackaged floorplan—and walked out impressed. The kitchen shocked him with its depth and function, the bathroom punched above its weight, and the sofa layout made the whole thing feel more livable.
A great pick for campers who want comfort without complexity — all in a tight little package.
Think the Jay Flight SLX 160LK might work for you? Take a closer look.
Jayco Jay Feather Micro 173MRB
Jayco Jay Feather Micro 173MRB
Length: 20′ 10″
Weight (GVWR): 4,995 lbs
Sleeps: 3
Approximate National Price Range: $28,000 – $38,000
What Makes the Jay Feather Micro 173MRB Stand Out?
- Redesigned Murphy bed with clever sliding nightstands, built-in USBs, and wireless charging pads
- Huge rear bathroom with serious storage, a full sink, and a big shower with skylight
- 200W solar panel with 30A controller and inverter prep already built in
- Double Azdel construction (inside and out) for better insulation and moisture resistance
- Smart storage upgrades throughout, including pocket-screwed cabinetry and deep kitchen drawers
Heads Up: The bed is a short queen, and lefties may bump elbows in the bathroom. No slide-outs mean you always have access in road mode—but also a bit less floor space when you’re camped.
Inside the Jay Feather Micro 173MRB
Towing Tips:
With a GVWR of 5,250 lbs, this one pushes the limit of “SUV towable,” but is still fair game for many properly equipped midsize pickups and larger SUVs.
You’ll want a tow package, brake controller, and weight distribution hitch—especially if you’re hauling in the hills.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 173MRB:
Josh called this one of the best-executed Jay Feather Micros yet.
The redesigned Murphy bed setup is actually useful (no junky picnic table this time), and the rear bath storage is shockingly good for a camper this size.
With no slides to worry about and smart little features all around, it’s a killer option for couples or solo campers who want quality without bulk.
Think the Jay Feather Micro 173MRB might work for you? Take a closer look.
Keystone Hideout 178RB
Keystone Hideout 178RB
Length: 20′ 11″
GVWR: 4,400 lbs
Sleeps: 3
Approximate National Price Range: $14,500 – $18,000
What Makes the Hideout 178RB Stand Out?
- 8-foot-wide body makes space for a walk-around bed and full dinette
- Generous bathroom with rectangular shower and skylight
- Plywood floors, pocket-screwed cabinets, and magnetic door latches
- Prepped for solar, inverter, tire pressure monitoring, and rear camera
- Good cargo capacity with room for water, gear, and upgrades
Heads Up:
This camper doesn’t include front stabilizers or dual propane tanks. It also uses a 5,000 BTU side-mount AC, which is lighter but may not cool as quickly as rooftop units in extreme heat.
Inside the Keystone Hideout 178RB
Towing Tips:
With a GVWR of 4,400 lbs and a dry weight just over 3,000 lbs, this trailer is best suited to mid-size pickups or SUVs rated to tow at least 5,000 lbs.
Avoid pushing the limits—leave margin for cargo, water, and gear.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Keystone Hideout 178RB:
“This is just a camper—and that’s the point. No glamping, no fireplace, no ceiling fan—just the basics done right.”
“And in a market that’s gotten pretty flashy, it’s refreshing to see something that remembers what camping is all about. It’s not trying to impress your neighbors at the campground. It’s just trying to get you there and give you a good weekend. And honestly? It nails that.”
Think the Hideout 178RB might work for you? Take a closer look.
Forest River Wildwood FSX 179DBK
Forest River Wildwood FSX 179DBK
Length: 22′ 6″
Weight (GVWR): 4,865 lbs
Sleeps: 6
Approximate National Price Range: $21,000 – $30,000
What Makes the Wildwood FSX 179DBK Stand Out?
- Compact and ultra-lightweight, towable by many midsize SUVs
- Smart bunkhouse layout with double-over-double bunks and a north-south Murphy bed
- No-slide design makes setup easier and reduces weight
- Platinum Edition adds fiberglass exterior, panoramic windshield, and entry door window
- Great touches for families: USB ports at every bed, outside camp kitchen, and thoughtful storage with food-safe totes under the bed
Heads Up: The Murphy bed is clever but uses a bendy mattress that might not be everyone’s favorite. Shower height and bunk airflow may feel tight for taller campers or summer trips. Limited cargo capacity in the Platinum Edition due to the added weight.
Inside the Wildwood FSX 179DBK
Towing Tips:
With a GVWR of just under 5,000 lbs, the FSX 179DBK fits many SUV towing limits.
However, if you’re fully loaded, we recommend a vehicle rated to tow at least 5,500 lbs, plus a brake controller and weight distribution hitch to enhance safety and control.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Wildwood FSX 179DBK:
Josh says this one “checks a shocking number of boxes” for such a small camper—double bunks, a Murphy bed, camp kitchen, and campside windows, all without a slide.
He highlights the space-saving layout, easy towing, and thoughtful touches like under-bed totes, USB ports, and real kitchen drawers—calling it a “fantastic starter camper for small families.”
Think the Wildwood FSX 179DBK might work for you? Take a closer look.
Forest River R-Pod 194
Forest River R-Pod 194
Length: 20′ 6″
Weight (GVWR): 4,725 lbs
Sleeps: 3
Approximate National Price Range: $22,000 – $28,000
What Makes the Forest River R-Pod 194 Stand Out?
- A truly unique layout—like a mini Class C motorhome, but towable
- East-west front bed with panoramic Euro-style dual-pane window and blackout radiant barrier shade
- Rear corner kitchen with full 10 cu. ft. 12V fridge, triple drawers, central vacuum, and even a convection oven
- Fully enclosed and heated underbelly + tire pressure monitoring system + walkable roof
- Clever space usage throughout: pop-up power tower, dog-friendly dinette bed, outdoor griddle and shower, and flickering “campfire” graphics
Heads Up: The east-west bed setup can make access tricky for two people. Kitchen is well-equipped but tight for more than one cook. The microwave is very low to the floor—not ideal for everyone.
Inside the R-Pod 194
Towing Tips:
At just over 3,300 lbs dry and a GVWR of 4,725 lbs, the R-Pod 194 is a solid match for most midsize SUVs with at least a 5,000 lb tow rating.
Make sure to use a brake controller and consider a weight distribution hitch for smoother handling.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the R-Pod 194:
Josh called this one a “Unicornosaurus Rex”—a layout he’s never seen before. It’s compact, smart, and heavily equipped for its size, making it a perfect solo camper or cozy couple’s getaway rig.
If you want small without basic, this one’s worth a serious look.
Think the R-Pod 194 might work for you? Take a closer look.
Coachmen Apex Remote 15R
Coachmen Apex Remote 15R
Length: 18′ 3″
Weight (GVWR): 3,800 lbs
Sleeps: 2
Approximate National Price Range: $24,000 – $28,000
What Makes the Apex Remote 15R Stand Out?
- A compact, no-slide camper with a rear entry door—perfect for solo travelers, minimalist couples, or gear haulers
- True queen bed (60″ x 80″) in an east-west layout with storage drawers and USB/power outlets
- All-aluminum six-sided frame with Azdel sidewalls, enclosed underbelly, dual 20 lb propane tanks, and Goodyear tires with TPMS
- Includes a tankless water heater, 12V fridge, XL vent fan, and outdoor griddle with LP quick connect
- 200W solar package standard with optional upgrade to 400W + inverter
- Huge front pass-through storage and rear cargo zone—perfect for loading e-bikes, totes, or even a small kayak
Heads Up: The 15R uses a wet bath (toilet and shower combo) and the east-west bed may require one person to climb over the other. It’s cozy—but designed for travelers who pack smart and move light.
Inside the Apex Remote 15R
Towing Tips:
With an unloaded weight of just 2,802 lbs and a max GVWR of 3,800 lbs, the Apex Remote 15R is an easy match for many midsize SUVs. You’ll still want to double-check your vehicle’s tow rating and payload capacity—especially once you factor in gear, water, and passengers.
A brake controller is a must, and a weight distribution hitch can help keep the ride level and smooth. Thanks to its compact size and single axle, it’s easier to maneuver into tight campsites or down narrow roads—perfect for weekenders and first-time towers.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Apex Remote 15R:
Josh called this one a “towable truck camper” in disguise. He loves the flexibility of the rear cargo space and the solo-camper-friendly layout.
The 15R is tiny but well-equipped—perfect for minimalist travelers who want quality construction, smart storage, and a few high-end touches without the size or weight of a full-size trailer.
Think the Apex 15R might work for you?
Find out how ordering one now can save you money- no matter where you live.
Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK
Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK
Length: 21′ 2″
Weight (GVWR): 4,998 lbs
Sleeps: 3
Approximate National Price Range: $29,000 – $38,500
What Makes the Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK Stand Out?
- First-ever tandem axle Geo Pro—adds towing stability without adding size
- Surprisingly roomy front kitchen with a full oven, 12V fridge, and real counter space
- Rear true queen bedroom—not a Murphy or corner bed
- Outside kitchen + rear cargo storage for gear, bikes, or totes
- Loaded with features: solar package, 1,800W inverter, tank heaters, composite walls, and enclosed underbelly
Heads Up: While the private bedroom is a nice perk, space is still tight if you’re camping with more than two people. Taller campers may find the shower height a little cramped.
Inside the Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK
Towing Tips:
At just under 5,000 lbs GVWR, the 20FK is a match for many midsize SUVs and light-duty trucks.
We recommend a vehicle rated to tow at least 5,500 lbs, with a brake controller and weight distribution hitch for better stability and control.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Rockwood Geo Pro 20FK:
Josh called this one “11 pounds of sugar in a 5-pound sack”—and meant it in the best way.
For a trailer this short, it’s surprisingly livable. The tandem axle adds stability, the kitchen is legit, and the overall layout punches way above its weight class.
Think the Geo Pro 20FK might work for you?
Find out how ordering one now can save you money- no matter where you live.
Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
Length: 16′ 3″
Weight (GVWR): 3,500 lbs
Sleeps: 5
Approximate National Price Range: $16,000 – $20,000
What Makes the Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15 Stand Out?
- Dual awning coverage to make campsite lounging easy and enjoyable
- A custom main bed plus a convertible sofa and bunk, giving you separate sleeping spaces in a super compact footprint
- Smart layout with no slides, a folding bar and stools instead of a dinette, and storage everywhere — including two pantries and under-sofa space
- Wet bath with hot/cold outside shower
- Off-grid basics: solar prep, 100W panel, battery tender, propane water heater, and higher clearance with beefed-up tires
- Rear door cargo access — perfect for long items like chairs or even a small kayak
Heads Up: This is a function-over-flash build. The wet bath is compact and the fridge is 12V-only, which isn’t ideal for extended off-grid trips without solar upgrades.
The main bed is an odd size (48″x72″), and the bunk has a 150 lb rating — great for kids, not for full-grown adults.
Inside the Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
Towing Tips:
At just 2,430 lbs dry and 3,500 lbs max, this is one of the most SUV-friendly campers on the market.
We still recommend a vehicle with at least 4,000–4,500 lbs tow rating for safety, especially when loaded, and a brake controller is a must.
Josh the RV Nerd’s Take on the Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15:
Josh the RV Nerd says the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15 fills a gap the RV world has mostly ignored. With its unique floor plan, it’s made for solo campers, single parents, or small families who don’t want a giant rig but still want real features.
Josh loves the panoramic windows, dual awnings, and clever kitchen setup. It’s not built to be fancy—it’s built to be smart. And for first-timers or downsizers, that combo of thoughtful design and lightweight towing makes it a standout.
Think the Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15 might work for you? Take a closer look.
Finding the Small Camper That Fits You
Not everyone needs a monster camper—and now you know of 9 of our favorite travel trailers under 5,000 lbs.
These campers are the 9 SUV towable campers we picked — the question is: which small camper will you pick?
At Bish’s RV, we believe campers should fit you, not the other way around. We’re always happy to answer your questions to help you find the right RV — even if it turns out a competitor has the RV that is the best fit for what you want.
If you’ve got questions, want to compare models, or just want to see if this one fits your vibe, we’re here to help—no pressure, no gimmicks.
Still shopping for a small camper?
Find the one that fits your style and your SUV.
All campers under 5,000 lbs.
See more Go Lite Campers.
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FAQs: Towing Campers Under 5,000 lbs with an SUV
1. Can my SUV tow a camper under 5,000 lbs?
Maybe—but don’t guess. Check your vehicle’s towing capacity in the owner’s manual or manufacturer website. You’ll want to look at GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the trailer, not just its dry weight. We recommend your loaded trailer weight stays under 80% of your max tow rating for safety and control.
2. Do I need a brake controller for a camper this light?
Yes, in most cases. Even though these trailers are light, most come with electric brakes, and you’ll need a brake controller in your tow vehicle to use them. It helps your trailer slow down in sync with your SUV—and it’s often required by law for anything over 3,000 lbs.
3. What’s a weight distribution hitch—and do I need one?
A weight distribution hitch (WDH) spreads the trailer’s tongue weight across your SUV’s axles and can improve steering, braking, and ride comfort. If your trailer weighs over 3,000 lbs or has a high tongue weight, we recommend one—especially with a unibody SUV or lighter tow vehicle.
4. Will I need any special towing mirrors or upgrades?
If your camper is wider than your SUV, extended towing mirrors help you see past the trailer for safe lane changes. Not all under-5,000 lb campers require them, but it depends on width and your SUV’s mirror size. A transmission cooler can also help prevent overheating on hilly terrain.
5. What else should I budget for beyond the trailer itself?
Plan on spending $500–$1,500 for towing essentials like a brake controller, Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH), hitch receiver, wiring harness, sway control, and maybe mirror extenders.
Your RV dealer can help you pick the right setup for your vehicle and camper combo.
6. Are campers under 5,000 lbs safe for long trips?
Absolutely—if you’re properly equipped. With the right tow vehicle, brake controller, and weight distribution hitch, these trailers can be great for long hauls. Just keep an eye on weight limits, tire pressure, and hitch setup before each trip.
7. Can I go boondocking or camp off-grid with a lightweight camper?
Many smaller campers are perfect for quick off-grid weekends. Some even come with solar panels, bigger water tanks, or battery upgrades. Just know their limits—most under-5,000 lb trailers aren’t built for extended off-grid stays without extra solar, generator, or battery capacity.
See Josh the RV Nerd’s 13 Picks for Best SUV Towable Travel Trailers
Written by:
Greg Long
Bish’s RV Content Manager
With over 10 years in the RV industry, Greg combines firsthand dealership experience with a passion for helping people find the right RV for their adventures. He’s walked thousands of campers, talked with real buyers, and believes the best RV advice should be clear, honest, and fun.
Amateur adventurer; professional dreamer.
aka: The Bish-Blog-Guy